Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Touch begins the moment we are entering into this world. No matter where you live, no matter what your culture, your human condition has been wired for the nourishment of touch. I believe it’s part of the physical human experience. From the moment you are born, people are coddling you, swaddling you, changing your clothes, feeding you, snuggling you, passing you from person to person introducing you to touch. Most people crave some form of this very nurturing act, as it is built into our DNA for thriving.

This very important early introduction can however swing you either in favor of a healthy relationship with touch or an unhealthy relationship with touch. Your experience can greatly differ and affect your emotional wellbeing and balance, your cognitive and neurological development and/or responses while growing and throughout your life. I’m sure you’ve discovered for yourself on a variety of occasions through a series of lifetime scenarios which touches release the highest oxytocin, serotonin, endorphin and dopamine rushes (the feel goods – sex, hand holding, reiki, massage, a pat on the back, cuddling, dancing with a partner, hugs, etc.) and which touches release the almighty cortisol which indicates fight or flight and stress (the not so feel goods – receiving a shot, being in a physical altercation, hitting your funny bone which is never funny as it sounds, being hit or grabbed, etc.). I am in favor of the good touches that make me smile from the inside out!

Think about how many times you’ve reached over to touch someone’s arm or leg when in a conversation, just as a point of connection. It’s a natural resource for the language of non-verbal communication. Study after study from Universities like Cornell and Berkeley and other Behavioral Science Departments have proven the wondrous and empowering benefits of touch.

Benefits of Positive Touch Include:

Promotes Healing

Pain Relief

Increased Energy

Oxytocin Release (Bonding Time!)

Lowers Blood Pressure

Lowers Stress Levels

Lowers Cortisol Levels

Positivity

Boosts Immune System

Better Communication

Vibrationally Lifting

Touch has the power to comfort a crying child, make the heart flutter with excitement of a woman in love, create energy, quell a man filled with sorrow, bring joy to the elderly, relax you, uplift you, save you and bring you back to life.

Touch is so magical to the spirit that people are opening cuddling centers for non-sexual human contact. The sheer power of being held makes us feel safe and comforted and loved when we may not have that otherwise in our lives, delivered to us in a manner that is pressure free where we can just be and be present without judgement or expectation. What an amazing gift to give and receive. We are surrounded by so much electronic communication that people are starving for real-time touch, real-time connections.

For myself personally, I am a huge fan of Reiki, Massage, Hand Holding, Hugging and all things Sensual as modalities for touch. Touch is timeless and ageless. You can never be too young or too old to benefit from the healthy and healing powers of this absolutely necessary component in life that is ancient, honest and healing.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

As I sat outside today for nearly all my days work, Nature proved once again to be nothing short of pure nectar for my soul. Today I was part of natures’ dream.

I sat amongst the grass and bees and flies and bugs and butterflies that fluttered by and all that came to say hello. The littlest of bees hovered and said Buzzzzzo! As he received my message of gratitude for all his work in the world, and then flew away. The grass welcomed my bare feet and promised it would rise again and that I was to feel the support all the while, tickling my toes. I watched the blades sway from side to side in a carefree fashion like a child running free. My dog rolled in the grass and then sat quietly sniffing the air while feeling the breeze blow through his hair and flapping ears.

I enjoyed the symphony of Aspens waving in the wind brought forth by this powerful and very live planet, relaying music of quietly woven intricacies that change is here, on the surface and at the core. This magnitude of engaging all my senses created my acute awareness of what is not seen with the visible eye, only felt and known. Her magical force, her mood, was my reminder of sanctuary where I was dressed in white, barefoot and had an overwhelming sense of peace from a past life regression I had from many years ago. She used the push of her voice and her breezy ways to instill a gentleness that suited her personality, knowing she could wipe me out if she so desired. She ushered falling leaves, falling blossoms and my hair all in the directions that moved her.

The sunshine accompanied the wind, by kissing my skin with her warmth and a bright glow. She made sure my exoskeleton, the one that keeps my veins, bones, tissues and vital organs protected was receiving her light-baring offer. I drank this stars gift and thanked her for being present. She continued to shine for me and was happy to share her rays with me, my dog and my growing veggies while providing us with natural essentials we need to be healthy. Thank you for the Vitamin D3 I whispered. She shone like the star she is and said you are welcome Julie.

The illusion of this so called life, the feeling of knowing I am on this planet as a visitor of sorts, an observer and of course the participant, is an innerverse joy this afternoon to every fiber of my being. Nature is where my head clears, my heart connects and I remember exactly who I am and a sense of serenity washes over me. This amazing lesson filled visit won’t last forever and then onto another journey I will go, willingly or unwillingly, it shall be… In the meanwhile, I emerge myself into nature and thank her profusely for caring and thanking her for her mercy today.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

As my son gets ready to board one of three flights to go from Koh Tao, Thailand to Bangkok and then from Bangkok to Melbourne and then from Melbourne to New Zealand, one learns to let go even while they are hanging on.

What does that mean exactly? It means that I still want his flight information while knowing I have no choice but to trust life will carry him from point A to point B. This is no easy feat for an ex-overworrier and someone who was raised to hold on tightly!

However, I have learned over this last year, that I have no control, no choice and that life is to be lived and loved and enjoyed and that worrying doesn’t actually stop anything from happening or un-happening as he still cracked his head open surfing, got food poisoning and was seriously dehydrated. He’s survived every night drinking with this best buddy and all their new friends. He has traveled from Australia to Thailand and met great people. He has managed to keep himself fed and sheltered. He became a Certified Scuba Diver. My son is capable and knows when he needs to reach out for a little help. He has grown into a completely new person that I will get to meet in 3 weeks.

Sigh… Even though the over-worrying has ended, the concerns remain. As his Mom, as my brothers sister, as an aunt, as all my parents daughter, and to many a friend, I realize that no amount of talking, no amount of questions, no amount of anything will ever halt what is to be. So grateful for my instincts, occasionally peppered with Mamabear WTF’s?, and OMG’s, and OH NO’s, and yet always the energetic connection and my heartfelt love for this kid transcends space and time. He knows. I know. We are connected.

Ahhh, the umbilical cord never really severs, it just stretches 7,688 Miles and beyond!

Two years ago, the Christmas sillies! Love this kid to the moon and back!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

I stood there listening to the sound of my own voice whaling. It was an observation from a momentary out of body experience. The sounds of pain, sadness and loss were coursing through my being and out my mouth along with the expressing of my heaving surrendered frame.

This was my first moment of allowing myself to melt into a pile of much needed release. My father had died. He was gone from this earth in the physical form. No longer tangible, no sound I could readily hear. There would never be an opportunity to speak with him again via telephone, receive or send a card. There would be no visits. I would never feel his hugs and hear his encouraging words in real-time again.

I would need to make sure the imprinted vision of his face, his lines, his smile, his teeth, his voice, his smell, his hugs, his laugh, his humor, his knowledge, and his words, his creative and expanded thinking would stay etched at the forefront to be called upon when I needed it.

Blessed am I that he’s present in my dreams, my words, my thoughts, nature, funny moments, dot connecting on a spiritual journey, the pictures that hang on my wall, my cells, my DNA and memories. I am grateful to continue reopening my heart, a soft heart, a heart that has not shut down or is numb. I am not jaded by life. I am more present and clear and compassionate and understanding and forgiving than ever. This has been a process.

My father died almost 8 years ago and reliving that exact moment described above is still just as potent as the day it took place. It’s a precious memory of knowing I was so very alive. His departure was a catalyst for some of the biggest and necessary changes in my life.

I have only cried in this surreal dream-like world one other time in my life thus far that was so very difficult to let go and that was when my son was leaving for an overseas GAP year.

So much LOVE to everyone who experiences loss of any kind. May you keep your heart open. Look around you for signs, synchronicity, and allow your support tribe to nourish you while you are in the deepest and darkest parts of the valley.

Nature is by far thee best medicine I personally have found! There really is no substitute for speaking your souls desires to the earth, to the water, to the air, to the wind, to the ether and to the field of pure energetics.

If you sit quietly in nature and allow yourself to become a part of your scenery, absolute magic and sense of it all come together. Everything outside of that moment is not so important. Life’s petty little irritations, life’s seemingly rapid pace slows to a rhythmic breath of order. Put your ear to earth. Become the earth. The earth is beating. Let your feet feel the soil and toes play with each microscopic grain. Welcome the sound of birds singing and communicating so naturally in their oxygenated playground amongst the trees. Allow the breeze to move right through you and bring the scent of remembering. Feel your heart open and be embraced with a warm smile from your spirit. Welcome the negative ions from a waterfall to induce positive feelings in your 4 bodies. Mother Nature is truly a spiritual and clearing gift available to all.

All of the shapes, colors, forms hold a fluidity and flow and serenity and become formless, they become an integrated piece of what you are, energy. It’s one of the most amazingly beautiful and graceful and powerful treasures we can be transcended by, like Love. It’s perceived differently by many and yet the consensus seems to always be the same. Simple consciousness, beauty and awakening visions bring peace and invoke a meditative effect allowing us to feel happier, calmer and more heart-full in our daily lives.

May you journey into the “inner-verse” so you may be reminded you are the “uni-verse” after all…

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

I keep seeing these articles that talk about loving a girl, a woman, who doesn’t know how to be loved. Right away a feeling of “savior” mentality washes over. Well FUCK THAT!

What if you loved a woman who DOES know how to be loved? What if she knows how to love you? What if you changed you’re whole entire pattern of choice by choosing the one who scares the shit out of you because they would stay? Because they will receive your love? What if, What if you were appreciated not on your savior skills but for who you genuinely are?

First off, women who know how to love, and be loved, are out there! Knowing how to receive love is so important because when you receive your partners love, you are telling them, I trust you. I trust us.

A woman who knows how to love and be loved, knows the importance of communication and that sometimes communication mishaps happen. It’s not something to freak out over, it’s something to allow you the opportunity to hear one another the way the other needs to be heard in addition to getting to know your partners sensitivities so you may work together instead of against one another. Communication mishaps teach you about yourself.

A women who knows how to love and to be loved understands that there are peaks and valleys and relationships grow in spurts and sometimes slowly and no matter this will require nurturing. This doesn’t mean she is perfect or will always say the right thing, or that she won’t have her moments, or feel sad, blah, blah, blah. What this means is that she believes in you and she knows your heart and adores you and there’s no one else she’d rather spend her time with at the end of her day.

A woman who knows how to love and be loved, will speak clearly on her behalf. She won’t speak belittling to you and she will do her best to use tenderness and direct words to let you know what she needs. She will fight for the two of you. She views she, as a we. She will appreciate when you forgive her and read between the lines from time to time and that only makes her love you more.

A woman who knows how to love and be loved will want to love you how you need to be loved. She will learn if she doesn’t quite have it down. She will hear you and do her best to give you exactly what you need. This can be very scary for some men because that means all the old bullshit habits of defending yourself, of being heard, being right, being validated and appreciated just may be fulfilled. This tends to create a feeling of resistance because it’s too good to be true and perhaps they’ve been conditioned to be in fight mode vs. delight mode. Sometimes this can feel boring at first, but the truth is, this is the person that will stick by you in the fox hole.

A woman who knows how to love and be loved is whole without you, but loves her life and herself with you. She wants to make the nest cozy for the two of you, not just for her. She knows you add something magical and deeply meaningful to her life and would never undervalue your amazing gifts as they are a part of her soul.

A woman who knows how to be loved and to love, knows that when shit gets a little thick, she’s not going to threaten leaving, she not going to bolt at the first signs of clashing and she knows the value of working through a relationship when there is love, deep down to the core everlasting, love. She will forgive, not hold grudges and move forward so you may do the same. So don’t be nervous by a little feist and fire from the belly for that is what keeps things real, passionate and strong like the root of a tree spiraling down into the earth to be seeded.

A woman who knows how to love and be loved will be strong for her and strong for you when life gets tough or you are down. She will support you, encourage you, be real with you and never withhold her love because she knows that is part of the steady foundation for building continuous trust between the two of you. She will never allow you to feel like you’re standing alone. She may let you figure you out things for yourself, but you will never be abandoned because it’s too much for her.

A woman who knows how to love and be loved, receives who you are, and lets’ you be that person, because she believes in the two of you and believes in you. She knows how she feels being loved by you and that this doesn’t always come easy for you but that you are her rock, you are her support, you are her sounding board, you are her strength as well, you are her fun, you are her passion, you are a part of each other. It just is… She is a warrior of love, she is a defender, she is a gatherer, she is a pillar of strength, she holds the womb of comfort and sacredness just for you. She is love and will be loved. She will go down into the depths of muddy painful waters with you and rise to the top holding your hand.

So really, fuck these titled articles of how to love a girl who doesn’t know how to be loved. I know how to be loved and I know how to love. It’s time we stop labeling men and women like they are broken. We are healing, healers, feeling, feelers and require patience. We are not broken. We just are… Let’s love our men. Let’s love our women. Let’s love one another because it’s the most potent and magical feeling there is.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Love shows up in all different ways, so if you’re like me you love cooking and playing with recipes and sometimes following them exactly! Some recipes turn out divine and others ,well, not so much. Ha! That’s OK I’ve accepted that I may not be the worlds best chef. No biggie! However, the recipes in this cookbook The Vegetarian Kitchen, by Melissa Bushby, have been really delicious and have taught me a few things, like making crusts, infusing a few flavors I didn’t think would taste good together and yet they did, and there is just a great variety for the palette.

I’ve been vegan, vegetarian, not vegan, not vegetarian, back to vegetarian off and on over the last 4 years and now I just eat as my body requests. There is about 95% no animal meats in my diet, but cheeeeeese is good in small quantities! This saves me a lot of hassle of being forced by some silly rule I made up myself as to how I am going to eat and what I’d be committed to. So, if you eat meat, add meat. If you don’t, don’t. If you eat cheese, add cheese. If you don’t eat cheese, use something like Daiya Cheese, which is very tasty too in these recipes!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

If there is one thing I am always trying to get into my body, it’s GREENS! Sometimes I need a boost and a little help from one of my favorite smoothie enhancers, Greens + Advanced Multi Raw Superfood Supplement. The reason I was drawn to this particular brand was because it was gluten free. However, when I began to read the ingredients and realized that these Greens would be such an essential vitamin, mineral and antioxidant mix, I knew this is what my body needed.

The other feature I really liked was that they used infrared activation so as to preserve the heat sensitive phytonutrients in the greens and maintains the quality of the superfoods! This means that what naturally occurs in your greens to give you nutrients in the raw form, is retained even through their processing.

The more alkaline your diet, the better your heart, your brain and your body will be. If each system is in working order and clear of toxins, each system can function at their optimum best and keep your lymph system moving, your digestive system moving and keep your blood oxygenated for transporting and delivering the vitamins and minerals your gut and body need as part of a healthy life.

I’m also sold on this product because it provides me with incredible energy that I really appreciate in the mornings. I don’t drink coffee so I consider this my “juice” that sustains me through my day.

Superfood, another way to add greens!

Advanced Multi Raw Superfood Greens+ (Orange Peel Enterprises) 9.4 oz. Powder ~ One container is worth a try for gained immunity, essential vitamins and minerals, energy, digestive support, detox properties, keeping your pH alkaline, building your bones and reducing stress. Clearly I like this product! Hope you will too! Take care of YOU because you’re the only YOU the world is blessed enough to have.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

For starters, I am a believer in the medicinal properties of fungi, veggies, bones, ferments, garlic and herbs! Here a few of my favorite immune boosters!

Everything I use is Organic or it will not be consumed for if the goal is health, why eat pesticides or GMO’s? If you are on a budget and don’t grow your own food, there are a lot of ways to get a better bang for your buck by using organic frozen veggies or making casseroles, large pots of soups and meals that you can freeze and reheat down the road.

I’m just a Fungi! I often use reconstituted mushrooms as a soup base and I always use the reconstituted water. I’ve not had a flu in over 7 years (knock on wood or our woodland friends shall I say!) and I really believe that this is just one of the reasons why. My favorite mushrooms to play with in the kitchen are Organic Maitake, Shiitake, Cremini, White Button, Oyster, Reishi and an immune supplement that is made up of about 17 different kinds of mushroom extract as well. Mushrooms are nutrient rockstars that can relieve stress, provide relief from fatigue, build your immunity amongst a whole host of other benefits. I used to get my mushrooms from a wonderful woman in Portland who forged and sold them to me each year from the farmers market. Next on my list, is forging them myself and don’t worry that will be a blog too!

Veggies! I use seasonal veggies to fill up my soups. In the Fall and Winter time I use lots of vegetables like carrots, parsnips, potatoes (red, yukon, sweet, purple), swiss chard, kale, celery, onion, winter squash, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, fennel and actually I use beans as well, not a veggie I know, but needed to be noted. These all have properties that are made for healing. For example, once you cut open an onion, you activate an anti-cancer agent that is working on your behalf. When you feel ungrounded, eating grounding foods like root veggies (carrots, turnips, parsnips, etc.) can help your root Chakra reconnect for a more solid and secure feeling. Maybe that’s why I am so drawn to them. I am a little bit of a celestial being!

Bones Bones Bones! It’s funny that as someone who only eats animal products maybe 2x a year, I will incorporate bones into my soups when I make them for my son. The old Jewish tale of Chicken Bone Broth is spot on! Bones hold the marrow, they hold the energy, and they hold the nutrients that your body may just be desiring to keep a healthy immune system. Bone broth is good for your joints as it contains glucosamine and chondroitin which most people seek from a capsule. My biggest reason would be the fact that bone broth is known to heal leaky gut. Basically leaky gut is when undigested food particles end up in your bloodstream. Doesn’t that sound like a disaster? Its is! Bone broth is also known to make your hair and nails super health and pretty. Anything that makes you pretty, heals your gut and lubes your joints, is really A-OK with me!

Fermentation Definition: an enzymatically controlled anaerobic breakdown of an energy-rich compound (as a carbohydrate to carbon dioxide and alcohol or to an organic acid); broadly : an enzymatically controlled transformation of an organic compound. Say What? Basically, it means foods like cabbage sit until they become bacteria boosting powerhouse agents. Ferments are an immune system & natural gut flora restorer. They are a natural pro-biotic and can be a guts best friend. Some of my favorites are Sauerkraut (which I can only have a tiny bit as I have a sulfite allergy and these naturally contain sulfites! Bummer, I know!) Kombucha, which I’ve only just been able to drink again about once a week but I love it! (Sulfites again) Pickled Dilly Beans are another favorite and they do not stand a chance in this house for more than a day. Kefir is so good for you and yet, it’s one that I have yet to adore. Someday perhaps. Two of my trusted go to resources for gut health information are Donna Gates and Summer Bock.

Garlic and Herbs: Yes, Garlic is the new Peaches. So garlic also contains naturally occurring sulfites, so I tread lightly in frequency, but not in amount. Garlic is such a potent natural antibiotic for the body and has been used throughout time for health purposes, not just to scare off vampires. Garlic is wonderful for the lungs, chest colds and the immune system. Garlic is great for heart health and removing plaque. Garlic is also the thyroids friend as it contains iodine which is much required by the body to thrive. Now when you mix Garlic with Herbs like Thyme, Rosemary, Sage, Tarragon, Basil, Oregano or whatever your favorites are, you can mix them in a bowl with olive oil and create your own drizzle for a spaghetti noodle delight, or you may drizzle a top of tomatoes or cucumbers. Fresh herbs like Thyme and the others mentioned are great as whole sprigs in soups that simmering and other dishes that you’d like to pop with flavor and ignite . Oregano is another of my favorites for immune building whether it’s taken from an oil, fresh or dried. Do not forget about parsley and cilantro as metal attractors, turmeric for arthritis inflammation, basil oil to rub on adrenals for adrenal fatigue, ginger for strong immunity – also a natural blood thinner, rosemary to contradict the effects of carcinogens and there’s just too many to tell.

AND… there you have a few of my favorites!

*If you are on pharmaceutical medications or are treating a condition, it’s always wise to check with your Dr., Naturopath or Holistic Practitioner to make sure that what you’re ingesting is not in conflict with any herbs, spices, foods or drinks you are consuming in high doses or accumulative. We are at a delicate time with food allergies running rampant, people on large amounts of medications and there can be serious side effects.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

As holidays approach and what used to be standard is no longer, I am acutely aware that my son is out in this world, living a dream and exploring an opportunity he manifested into reality. This is what we want for our children and we know the process is going to carry many emotions and we let go and hold on in only a way that we can.

Normally, I would be decorating the house for the Fall season and Halloween, however I chose this year to leave behind the hype and colorful pieces of celebration. Why? The only conclusion I’ve come up with is that I feel like I have outgrown this particular feeling of needing and wanting this for myself. Part of the joy was the collaboration of parties and decor with festive neighbors who had kids and we were all taking a part in the community hallows eve of doing it for the kids and it made us happy to see them happy, but mostly for me, it was the pure comfort of knowing my son quietly appreciated the fun end result of having a home filled with warmth.

So, with a nostalgic twinkle in my eyes and holding space in my heart, I watch other parents with their little ones, I watch them laughing, I watch them taking part in these rituals that are really silly conceptually overall (whole different blog!), I watch them form their traditions that help weave the fabric of family that I once had the pleasure of creating as well.

There are a few other little birds (my nieces & step daughters) my son and I used to celebrate these moments with as well. These memories are embedded in my heart. Funniest part is, I am only at Halloween in my nostalgia! There is still Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years left!

As the year continues on, my heartspace grows to epic proportions of love and gratitude and I make my way by seeing the joy in others, creating some new traditions this year, knowing that I am so blessed and have great new neighbors, great friends near and far, activities to keep me busy, time for creations that are being birthed and born in my business life, volunteering opportunities and family that I will see when they come to visit. I find peace knowing that my son is safe, sound and enjoying his creation of memories and making new friends.

This is just a snippet into my open heart of an empty nesters first season without her kiddo. Remember time flies and so do our little birds. Enjoy Every Moment,

Love Julie xo

(PS) Doggy Love Moment: My dog is like a 24 hour toddler so I always have him to love on and luckily for me, he accepts every pet, every kiss, every hug!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Where do I begin you ask? Begin by asking yourself, “How Do I Feel?” bloated, fatigued, stomach pain, depression,muscle cramps, joint pain, irritability or perhaps a general “off” feeling? True Celiac disease can be life threatening if left untreated. Celiac can also starve your body of the nutrients you are taking in from a lack of absorption, leaving you to lose weight (not always a good thing), weak, exhausted and could cause foul smelling oily or fatty greyish stools.

Next, take a look at your family history and start asking your family members if they have ever been tested for any Gluten issues. Also, keep in mind, if they don’t have an issue, you may still develop Gluten Intolerance/Sensitivity.

Next, take your health into your hands and get tested if you suffer from any of the following:

YOU CAN LIVE A HAPPY & HEALTHY LIFE WITH CELIAC OR A GLUTEN INTOLERANCE!

As always, just because you exhibit any symptom or dis-ease does not automatically make you Gluten Intolerant or give you a case of Celiac. Get the facts before you react and remember to listen to your body! Having the correct diagnosis and information helps you live fully and allows you to create meals and a health plan that works to alleviate your discomfort and allows your body to thrive!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Do you feel bothered by a painful feeling from the burning sensation in your esophagus and/or stomach from acid indigestion and often pop an antacid to give yourself relief?

Whether it’s a chew or a pill, over the counter or prescription, you are creating a pattern of suppressing the acids that your body needs for healthy digestion. Chronic users are constantly on the merry go round, knowing they are going to eat, experience acid indigestion and take an antacid. Many people take them several times a day, exceeding the “recommended dosage” and thinking these are harmless.

Well, they are not harmless. Quite often, you don’t have an overproduction of acid, you have an underproduction of stomach acids, which essentially causes starvation in your body as the nutrients, enzymes, vitamins etc. that are necessary to keep your gut healthy and digesting properly, cannot do their job because they are halted to a STOP by an ANT-ACID!

Some symptoms of low stomach acids: burning immediately after eating; burping, bloating, feeling full after a small quantity of food, peeling fingernails, hair loss, gas in the upper abdomen. Low stomach acid has been associated with eczema, rheumatoid arthritis, weak adrenals, rosacea, chronic hepatitis and thyroid issues and more.

If you are chronic, get tested for low stomach acid (HYPOCHLORHYDRIA) and don’t forget “Be Your Own Doctor”. Ask questions, investigate and take control of your health!

To find out more, check out a book called “Why Stomach Acid is Good for You” by Johnathan V. Wright M.D and Lane Lenard, Ph.D. You just may be surprised you are not suffering from acid reflux, acid indigestion and heartburn after all.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Gratitude not Attitude is really a philosophy that when practiced, reminds you that everything you need, you already have. This is not to negate that there are basics we need in this world to survive, it’s to help you see that what you seek, is available in a variety of ways to you and perhaps what you need doesn’t show up in the form in which you’ve expected.

When you enjoy what you are surrounded by, you do not wish for more. You delight in what is right in front of you. You live in the moment and feel the joy of the people around you or perhaps you are a better friend, better human in the world.

The best recipe for Gratitude, not Attitude is:

Stop right where you are

Breathe in all the positives

Appreciate the people in your life, past and present

Share your wisdom

Smile and be kind daily and remember your focus is being grateful for each opportunity that arrives

I like to begin my day with meditation. I use the first 5-10 min. or so to focus on gratitude. I do not wish for things I do not have, or didn’t get or want but I cannot have them. I focus on the love I do have, the people in my life who are blessings, my son, my dog, my home, and creature comforts that make my life easier. I focus on a mantra I created for myself, honoring loving, gratitude I feel.

It’s not to say that I don’t have heartaches or challenges or obstacles that need to be overcome, it’s to say that I am not focusing on what I cannot change, however I am appreciating the positives, now.

Each night before you go to sleep, write down a few things you were grateful for throughout your day. It can be as simple as being in gratitude to the person who asked “How are you today” to you having the opportunity to open a door for someone. Daily Kindnesses. It can be your child’s laugh or funny story, it can be a moment in nature that caught your eye and captured your heart. The point is, reflect, feel and write.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

These are just a few of the A’s that I love so much! Each A is a gift to my Palette and makes me oh so happy knowing that some of the seriously nutritious foods I eat begin with the very first letter in our Alphabet!

Almonds– A handful a day helps you receive about of quarter of your daily nutrients like calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, potassium, selenium and they are high in fiber. Don’t be concerned about the percentage of fat when label checking, almonds contain mostly healthy fat, the unsaturated kinds. They have been rumored to be good for your heart due to the Vitamin E content and good for your colon. It’s also been mentioned that Almonds help give you a flat tummy! With those kinds of rumors, I think a handful a day is a good decision.

Apples– When you were growing up, maybe your mother said: An Apple a day, keeps the Doctor away. She may have been right! Apples contain Pectin and Pectin is a fiber source that helps to reduce your cholesterol and keeps your colon working regularly. Apples also have a small amount of Vitamin C and Potassium. Plus, they are yummy and help to fill your tummy as a great mid-morning or afternoon snack! *Apple skin is really good for you, however, the skin holds the pesticides, so make sure to use a good fruit wash or use the one recommended above.*Also, if you Juice your apples, you can actually include the seeds!

Apricots – This is one fruit that is loaded with Vitamin A!! Vitamin A Beta Carotene, A- Carotenoid. Vitamin A supports good vision and enough fruit containing Vitamin A can assist in preventing Macular Degeneration. The smaller relative of the Peach also provides us with a healthy dose of Vitamin C. They are also a very fiber filled fruit which may be a gentler alternative for constipation. Actually dried Apricots work like a natural laxative! So, eat dried apricots for pleasure or eat them for a little help with mother nature, either way, pay attention to how many you have consumed or you could be running to the bathroom!

Artichokes – The dangerously pointed Vegetable is truly one of my all time fav’s. It’s like hunting when you buy one, as you are rooting through, you are carefully picking your prey and determing which sharp tipped Artichoke will make into your bag home. Did you capture this large Vegetable without meeting it’s one or more of it’s spikey leaves? Sounds fun huh?! The Artichoke is at the top of the list for it’s fiber content, alittle over 10 grams. Your daily recommended amt. is anywhere from 20-30 grams. Not a bad end to the day if you’re consuming these at dinnertime. The Artichoke is also loaded with Vitamin C, Potassium (great for normal heart rythm), Magnesium, and believe it or not, they contain 4 grams of Protein!

Asparagus -A is for Aphrodisiac! Asparagus is a known libido booster!! Aside from it’s sexy qualities, it also contains Folate which is vital for helping to have healthy babies and proper functioning nervous systems. When paired with B12 is great for cognitive brain function and can help stave off aging brain symptoms. Asparagus helps keep your Blood Pressure low, helps to prevent kidney stones and is an alkaline food which is necessary to keep your body in a healthy balance. It’s loaded with antioxidants which as we know are important for fighting free radicals and may help to prevent cancer. Personally, for the Libido portion alone, this vegetable just got a little more attractive!

Avocado – Avocado how we love you so! If you want healthy fats, this is a rich, creamy go to!! This tough skinned Fruit, yes, Fruit, is loaded with Oleic Acid which has been known to help prevent breast cancer, plus with other cancer fighting compounds it’s been known to reduce, prostate and oral cancer as well. The Carotoid Luten in Avocados is great for your eyes and Avocados contain 13 of the most important vitamins (A,B, C, D and K, etc.) your body needs. The next time you’re worried about fat content, just remember, this is the Healthy fat and if you have to choose between Cookies, Chips or an Avocado, go for the Avo! You just need a pinch of salt, pepper and a spoon!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Rumi was a Passionate, Persian, Mystic and Theologian who in the 13th Century (Medieval times) spoke words of his love of God and the distance between them. His writings have been translated through time and are considered spiritual and poetic throughout the world as he speaks the language of love.

When you lose all sense of self

the bonds of a thousand chains will vanish.

Lose yourself completely,

return to the root of the root

of your own soul ~

~Rumi~

His poems not only can be related to ones relationship with God, Spirit, Source, whatever you choose or not choose to personalize, but his words are works that speak to the heart of man. They are words of longing for your love, for your souls fire and words to express how deeply your passions entwine with another.

The reason I am posting this is because I believe we are longing to belong in the arms of a beloved, to ourselves. Whether it be spiritual, physical world, or self fulfilled, we are longing to be deeply loved and the first step to loving another person or spirit or God, or whatever you feel, is knowing that we can love ourselves deserving, without longing and suffering. To love ourselves in this way first, to know you are enough and to focus on your loving aspects and what you have to offer can then become a beautiful marriage to Rumi’s words. Rumi’s words speak to each individual in a variety of ways and to apply such loving letters to yourself is to know you are embraced by love all around you. Your beloved is you and all that you are. Your beloved is your faith. Your beloved is your family. Your beloved are your friends, all humans, animals, nature, earth, sky, north, south, east, west. Your beloved is that which is to be-loved by your hearts deepest desires, your soul.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Bring to a boil, then simmer for a few hours or at least one uncovered

Add heavy cream on simmer, mix well

Add a little fresh Basil on top and sprinkle with fresh Parmesan Cheese!

*Oh and hey, Don’t forget to make your spaghetti noodles about 15 minutes before done. Salt your water while water is heating up to a rolling boil. Add your noodles, turn down flame to medium high-ish – separate noodles with a fork and wait alloted time on package!

You may add any meat that lights your fire! We are meatless in this recipe!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Well for starters drinking it in the morning will help your body get going. By get going, I mean it alerts and awakens your lymph system, digestive system and the smell of lemon makes one feel refreshed.

Lemons naturally assist in hydration and staying hydrated helps you to avoid, adrenal fatigue (which I am working with right now). When your body is seriously lagging and is in a state of chronic dehydration, your adrenals cannot do their best to control your cortisol levels, which manages how you manage stress. These two little glands are vital to keeping your body and mind in a top functioning state.

Lemons contain Vitamin C, an antioxidant, which helps to boost your immune system and keep your skin clear as it assists in ridding your body of toxins.

Lemons are an Alkaline Food which means they are not acidic. One would think they are acidic because they are a citrus fruit, however they are an Alkaline which is needed to keep the body healthy and balanced. Too much acidity knocks your body into a state of panic and it has to work overtime to fight off infections and illness of all kinds.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

Strawberries are loaded with Vitamin C, Manganese, Fiber, Folate and Iodine. However, due to their skins, they retain pesticides (even organic can have residue) and need to be cleaned.

To make a simple wash, get a spray bottle — fill it half way with distilled white vinegar and the other half with water. Shake it up and spray your fruits and vegetables and rinse with warm water. For a more potent version, just add juice of 1 lemon and 1 tablespoon baking soda. Mix well!

This wash can be used as a spray and scrub and other times as a soak for produce like grapes, cherries and apples that have skin with vital nutrients and enzymes.

What are the top pesticide laden produce items around?

Apples

Berries; Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries

Celery

Cherries

Collard Greens

Grapes

Kale

Lettuce

Potatoes

Spinach

Sweet Bell Peppers

Tomatoes

Just remember if you cannot buy Organic, regularly clean your fruits and veggies. I use the simple spray even on the Organic produce and the more advanced one if I purchase non-organic, which is uber rare, but it has happened like 1x a year.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

OREGANO OIL, did I just fall off the Oregano Truck? Why hadn’t I heard about this wonder oil before? A few summers back a friend of mine told me about Oregano Oil and how it is an immune system strengthener and that it was also good for several other healthy benefits, skin, etc. So, being who I am, I went home and looked it up immediately, started talking to other people who had used this fragrant oil as well and I began to comprise a list of the pros and cons. Let’s get started –

History:
Oregano Oil was used by Ancient Greeks, as well as some others. However, they were one of the first. The Greeks saw the medicinal value this oil had and how it affected their health. It was used as an anti-fungal, pain reliever, anti-bacterial, an inflammation reducer and it was known to successfully fight infections, which I imagine with all their fighting, they needed a good natural remedy!

Hippocrates used Oregano as an Antiseptic, Respiratory Cure and Stomach Ailments. Hippocrates said “Let Food be thy Medicine and Let Medicine be thy Food”. I think they were onto something!!

This herb is closely related to the Marjoram herb and is also known as wild Marjoram.

Pros:

Skin Issues -This oil helped to keep my Roseaca under control due to it’s ability to knock out organisms that were hard at work causing flare ups. I used this topically as well as in my tea. Once again, 2 drops was sufficient. Always read the instructions on the bottle as some tinctures recommend mixing with an oil. This works great as well for skin infections and itchy skin.

Digestive Issues – Destroys organisms that supply fuel for tummy troubles. I used 2 drops in some warm water with lemon or with tea for a calm and properly digesting system. Oregano Oil contains large properties of Thymol and Carvacrol. These relax your digestive system.

Immune System – Strengthens your system and since it’s working on your gut simultaneously, you are automatically improving your health. Your gut is the tell all of your health and your immune system. When your body is keeping mucous and your sinuses are feeling congested, try Oregano Oil for 3-5 days and notice a breathing difference. Same for your lungs, feeling congested, a few drops in juice, tea, water, and voila! you should begin feeling better!

Cons:

Ladies! Oregano Oil has been said to reduce the bodies ability to absorb iron. This caught my eye and immediately as many women are low in iron to begin with. So, if you are using this oil on a regular basis, you may want to take an iron supplement. PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD NOT USE OREGANO OIL. PREGNANT MOMMIES NEED IRON!

Some people have allergies to Oregano, Thyme, Mints and Basil. These are all in the same family and could trigger an allergic reaction you didn’t count on! So, avoid!! You may want to avoid Marjoram too!

I really like some Essential Oils’ Oregano and one you can buy at the market called P73. As with any herb, oil, supplement, if you are not sure if its right for you, talk to a Naturopath or Holistic Dr. and get another opinion.

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

I caught myself saying this to my Dog one day, “you’re not boyfriend, you’re my Dog” as he licked my face while I was looking for food on the bottom shelf in the pantry.

This adorable little guy is good for my soul

What does that mean exactly you ask? I don’t know really. It made me think. I guess it means that he fills a need for expression. It means that my generously loving and loyal dog that follows me around, protects me, listens to all woes, all my happy moments, shares in movie watching, music listening and sing alongs, hears every conversation I have on the phone, seems to enjoy everything I cook and loves to walk, likes to see some people, recluse it up a bit, sits quietly while I pretend I’m OK at expressing some form of artistic styling known as Art that perhaps a 1st grader painted, is lonely when I leave the house, always happy to see me when I get back, couldn’t eat dinner without me, enjoys when I have women friends over but not men so much, loves when I pet him, when I give him Reiki and loves when I kiss his furry little skull. He could be my boyfriend, but the co-dependent type that’s hard to say no to because he so cute, hogs the bed with cuteness and really is a sweetheart. But he’s also jealous of my time, high maintenance and it’s often like caring for a toddler.

There are circumstances when the affection of an animal saves peoples spirits and keeps them from feeling too lonely, depressed and they provide many with comfort and someone to talk with and have as a presence around their home. Elderly people often have pets just for that reason. A dog or cat for that matter, although far more independent and borderline snobbish, while they are no replacement for human affection for more than 5 obvious reasons, must be celebrated! Our furry, unconditional loving companions are like children who need caring and nurturing and love to thrive. We as humans, love to love.

So Cheers and Blessings all day long to these warm and loving friends and just remember, Love is Love, but grown up human love is the kind of love you can share without your clothes on!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

When my son needs energy, and I mean the type of energy that pushes you through into the night, as he’s a teenager who has been working 13 hour days, socializing at night, graduating and functioning on limited resources, I give him this!

2 Bananas

1 cup Frozen Blueberries

1 Tablespoon Honey Peanut Butter or Almont Butter

1 Wheatgrass shot

1 Handful Spinach

1 Teaspoon Local Bee Pollen

1 Dropper of Adrenal Support Tincture

1 Teaspoon Maca Powder

4-5 ice cubes

1/2 cup – 1 cup filtered / spring water

Pop in the high speed blender and vroom vroom! Pour in a glass and enjoy!

Julie Tartak, owner of Whole Soul Wellness. She uses an intuitive combination of Reiki, Soul Sessions and Nutritional Coaching which allows you the time you need to gain clarity while you receive the proper tools for real change. You get to explore what works for you and receive new perspectives to empower you to make better choices that will improve your outlook, health and happiness. Whole Soul Wellness is the most Nourishing gift you can give yourself and others!

*some people enjoy a splash of cranberry as well – Just take a handful of cranberries and blend, crush and squeeze the juice or juice them to add a little punch!

The Chia Seed provides you with plenty of Omega 3’s, Omega 6’s, and 5 Grams of Fiber. All important to maintaining a healthy balance in your body.

The Lime is a wonderful source of Vitamin C which of course helps to keep your Immune System STRONG! Also, the lime has been studied for it’s cancer fighting powers as well! This is an alkaline fruit.

*Cranberries are known for their protection against Urinary Tract Infections, also contain Vitamin C and being studies continuously for their healing properties in the stomach lining and urinary tract. These are an acidic fruit.

Enjoy!

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Intuitively, Energetically and Purposefully, I AM here to invoke heart-spaced healing. My focus is on the energetic/emotional healing level. I provide the opportunity for you to explore what works for you, bringing fresh perspectives, clarity, resolve and action steps. I am a catalyst and gateway for beginners and those looking for a whole being approach. Whole Soul Wellness is about you and your journey into personal growth.